Andrew, It's possible the locks were changed, resulting in your current dilemma. Try the trunk lock too. Another possibility is that the locks are original, but MB has the wrong data on file for the key code for your VIN. This is rare, but it does happen. I had that problem on my 1984 300D. They won't believe you - and will insist the locks were changed - unless you can produce one of the original master keys with the red dot. None of the options to rectify this are pleasant. You'll need to extract what's left of the broken key, and get a locksmith to make copies of it. Several of them. Keep one at home in a safe place, away from the car. If you're really anal, you can have all the locks on the car converted to fit the dealer's VIN-cut key, eliminating any future headaches.
Lesson to everyon else: If you don't have AT LEAST one spare key for your car, get one immediately. For cars with 'security' keys (W124, 201, 140, etc) it's cheaper to buy the dealer VIN-cut keys - call Rusty. Even if you have an old double-cut key (like on the W123's), it's still a good idea to order one dealer key just to make sure the VIN-cut key fits your locks. Or just order a new ignition lock tumbler, which will include a new steel VIN-cut key. If the tumbler is 20+ years old, I strongly recommend doing this as preventive maintenance anyway. I replaced both my W124 tumblers (1986 & 1987) in the past year, and the old tumblers showed *significant* wear, although they were still operating acceptably. I did the same for my dad's 1987 300D as well - it was also quite worn. If you wait until it seizes up, it's either 5 hours or $500+ to repair. Do it now in 5 minutes and $75 for the new tumbler... :-) -Dave M. > ------------------------------ > Date: Thu, 8 Dec 2005 12:28:59 -0700 > From: Chuck Landenberger <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Subject: Re: [MBZ] Replacement Key was: my wife did it! > > Andrew, > > Simple conclusion IMHO..... A PO had new ignition and door locks > installed hence the VIN match won't work.... > > Take care, > > Chuck > Phoenix AZ > ======================================== > On Dec 8, 2005, at 12:15 PM, andrew strasfogel wrote: > > > And MY son's friend broke off his ONLY key in the door lock (1985 > > 300D). He (son) obtained a replacement key from the dealer based > > on the VIN but it fits neither the front PS door (the broken key is still > > lodged in the driver's sdie door lock) nor the ignition. Suggestions, > > anyone? > >
